Sunshine Coast Travel Guide

The Sunshine Coast is located on the southern coast of British Columbia in Canada, northwest of Vancouver and just a 40 minute ferry ride away from North Shore’s Horseshoe Bay. Known for its approximately 2,500 hours of sunshine each year, the Sunshine Coast was christened "Sunshine Belt" by the Roberts family in 1914, until it was changed to its current and popular name in 1951.

Although it is part of the British Columbian province, the Sunshine Coast was separated from the rest of the territory by the mountains bordering its bays, thereby making ferry the primary transportation in the area. Considered a well kept secret of the province, the Sunshine Coast’s main attractions include its vast stretch of rainforest, idyllic seashores and soaring mountains, making it a top travel destination not only for local tourists but also from guests coming in from different parts of the globe.

The quaint small town feel of the Sunshine Coast is one of the many reasons why it plays host to throngs of travellers, year in year out. It never runs out of beautiful ways to amaze tourists as they feel much like protectors of a well kept secret unbeknownst to the rest of the travelling world. From the many beautiful artisan shops, to the romantic sunsets by the bay and the awe inspiring views from Roberts Creek and Pender Harbour, people will never run out of interesting things to see and equally exciting things to do while they spend their much awaited vacation with the whole family on the Sunshine Coast.

The Sunshine Coast, which is also accessible through one of the two daily bus services by Malaspina Coach Lines traversing Powell River from Vancouver including stops in many of the Sunshine Coast’s major communities, can easily be explored through one of the many bus companies that service the area. The most ideal way of going around, though, is to rent a car and take a very personal tour of the area.

The perfect way to jumpstart any Sunshine Coast vacation is by visiting the Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park. Most known to be the site of the most spectacular currents in the western part of North America, these narrows are situated where the water enters the Sechelt inlet. One of the best ways to get a spectacular view of the narrows is by hiking through the fishing village of Egmont.

Another perfect Sunshine Coast destination is the Princess Louisa Inlet, which is considered one of British Columbia’s most beautiful locations. It is a perfect place for an amazing boating adventure. Navigate through dozens of incredible waterfalls straight through the Malibu Rapids before heading to Chatterbox Falls. While there, one must also experience the dock and the lovely boardwalks that will lead any wandering traveler to the falls. Considered a paddling haven, any tourist who ventures out to the enchanting islands of the Sunshine Coast will never run out of exhilarating water adventures to experience.

Apart from the wild water activities, the Sunshine Coast is also rich in hiking and biking trails, and visitors will have quite an adventure choosing one from the hundreds available for any brave heart to discover. The multi-use trails are designed to cater to hikers, bikers, as well as horseback riders and ATV riders.

For those who cannot get enough of the enthralling water tours, elevate the experience even more by visiting Sechelt and going on another row of kayaking, fishing and hunting. While in Sechelt, a detour to the House of Hewhiwus, or the House of Chiefs Museum will also prove to be another worthwhile experience. Marvel at the amazing exhibits of traditional weaving, interesting masks and paddles, and beautiful stone carvings.

Before heading back home, anyone would find visiting one of the many Sunshine Coast artisanal shops quite a treat. Shop for island souvenirs to bring home to your family and friends, or look for local wares to purchase and bring a piece of Sunshine Coast with you. Complete the experience by watching the skilled potters, carvers and woodworkers work on yet another masterpiece. And before packing your bags for the last time, it will prove to be another wonderful Sunshine Coast experience to visit the Backeddy Marine Pub on Backeddy Road where you can sample its very well known humungous Skookum Burger.